HE MAY be about to reach the age when most men retire but Tom Jones's earning power is at its peak.

The hardworking superstar - who will celebrate his 65th birthday with a massive concert in his home town of Pontypridd next month - is the 10th richest person in the UK music industry, according to the new Sunday Times Rich List.

After much blood, sweat and tears, Tom's bank balance now stands at #175m - #10m more than a year ago. And although he may not write his own lyrics, he makes his money through his extensive touring, especially in America, and his impressive album sales.

Charlotte Church is still one of the richest young people in Britain, retaining the #6m she had in the bank last year.

But topping the music list - which will be published as part of the full Rich List in this weekend's Sunday Times, is Clive Calder, whose wealth has risen to #1.3bn.

Calder, the man behind acts including Britney Spears, made his fortune by selling his independent label Zomba to record giant BMG. In second and third places are Sir Paul McCartney (#800m) and Lord Lloyd-Webber (#700m).

The list's editor, Ian Coxon, said Tom's collaborations with other fashionable artists, such as Jools Holland and Robbie Williams, ensured his continued success.

"Although he doesn't write his own songs, he gets royalties from his album sales," said Mr Coxon.

"He has a youthful approach and has worked with people like Robbie Williams so manages to appeal to all age groups, which means his success continues and he refreshes his fan base - you don't want an ageing fan base.

"He also performs all over America and sells a lot of albums there."

Another long-standing performer who also celebrates his 65th birthday this year - Sir Cliff Richard - has dropped off the Rich List, which charts all those in the UK who are worth #50m or more. Sir Cliff's wealth stands at #40m.

"Most of his (Sir Cliff's) earning are from single sales - he just doesn't sell as many albums as Tom," said Mr Coxon.

Charlotte, 19, is now at joint 12th place, alongside actress and TV presenter Denise Van Outen, on the list of young millionaires aged 30 and under.

"Although she's continued to perform, she's not released any new albums," said Mr Coxon.

The young millionaires are led by Dhani Harrison, son of the late Beatle George Harrison, who inherited #140m from his father.

The Sunday Times has also released its list of the highest earning models. Sophie Dahl, the granddaughter of writer Roald Dahl, who lived in Cardiff, is worth #5m.

The name of Britain's richest person is being kept a secret until the list is published on Sunday.

Is your name Tom Jones? We want to get Tom Joneses in Wales together for a memorable celebratory picture. Please contact Paul Carey on 029 2058 3654 or at paul.carey@wme.co.uk